The findings have led to the development of national policy changing the way officers deal with incidents. A new ‘decision control’ process now helps commanders communicate goals, consequences, risks and benefits of actions taken under pressure.

Now Dr Cohen-Hatton has won an award for innovation. She said: “I wish to dedicate this award to all London firefighters who have been working so hard to help everyone touched by the Grenfell Tower incident.

"The driver for this research was to keep firefighters safe. Recent events have demonstrated to the world just the kind of high pressure, high risk situations in which our firefighters find themselves.

"I dedicate my work to keeping them safe so they can continue to safeguard the public.”

Read More

Born in Cardiff, Dr Cohen-Hatton went to Bassaleg School in Newport. Leaving school at 16, she joined the fire service at 18, working through the ranks to become Group Commander in South Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

She completed a degree in psychology before tackling a PhD at Cardiff. She studied at night while serving as a full-time fire officer and raising a young child.

After a secondment to Welsh Government advising ministers and senior civil servants on fire and rescue policy, Dr Cohen-Hatton moved to London three years ago as Deputy Assistant Commissioner.

Julie James, Minister for Skills and Science, presented the People's Choice Award to Dr Cohen-Hatton, the National Fire Chiefs Council, and the School of Psychology’s Professor Rob Honey.

Ms James said: “The People’s Choice winner is an outstanding example of how a research study can be translated into practical decision-making advice with the potential to save lives in an emergency.

"It also highlights the importance of partnerships between academia, government and external organisations in shaping and safeguarding our wider society.”

Prof Honey added: “It has been a real privilege to be part of the innovative work conducted by this dedicated and inspirational team.”

The Innovation and Impact Awards, now in their 19th year, highlight the benefits of partnerships between the university’s academics and external organisations.